Over 500 law firms and 300 retired judges have come together to oppose President Trump’s executive order aimed at Perkins Coie, a major law firm. The order, which targets the firm for its work with Democrats, strips its employees of security clearances and cuts off government ties.
The lawyers and judges filed two friend-of-the-court (amicus) briefs in support of Perkins Coie, urging the courts to block the order. They argue that the order is an attack on the American legal system and on the freedom of lawyers to do their jobs without fear of political retaliation.
Donald Verrilli, a former Solicitor General under President Obama, signed the brief on behalf of the law firms. In it, he said: “Although we do not take this step lightly, our abiding commitment to preserving the integrity of the American legal system leaves us no choice but to join together to oppose the (executive order) that is at issue in this litigation.”
The brief asks U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell, who is overseeing the case, to rule in Perkins Coie’s favor and block the executive order permanently.
The legal world has been divided over how to respond to Trump’s actions. Some of the biggest firms in the country, like Covington & Burling, WilmerHale, and Jenner & Block, signed the brief, while others have struck deals with the administration. Firms like Paul, Weiss and Skadden Arps have agreed to do pro bono work for causes backed by Trump in exchange for avoiding further conflict.
The brief from the judges focuses on the importance of lawyers having the freedom to represent their clients fully. They argue that the order threatens the integrity of the legal system. The brief says: “Amici share an interest in ensuring both the substance and the appearance of justice in the adjudication of disputes. This requires — always — preserving the freedom of lawyers to advocate for their clients with candor and with zeal, thus providing judges with the complete legal and factual record needed for fair adjudication.”
Trump’s executive orders targeting law firms have caused widespread concern, with many questioning the legal and ethical implications. Perkins Coie is challenging the order in court, and so far, a federal judge has temporarily blocked some parts of the order. The Trump administration cannot prevent Perkins Coie employees from entering federal government buildings, nor can it force contractors to reveal if they do business with the firm.
Judge Howell, who issued the temporary restraining order, has hinted that the order may violate the First Amendment by punishing protected speech. She also suggested that it could violate due process protections.
Verrilli urged the courts to act swiftly, writing: “The judiciary should act with resolve — now — to ensure that this abuse of executive power ceases.”
